I cannot think of a single upland bird that thrives where land/habitat have been fragmented along with urban sprawl. These circumstances are much more problematic for upland birds than fire-ants.

Chukar, quail, and pheasants don’t live in Chicago, NYC, LA, or DC. There are no fire-ants in any of those locations and yet there are no wild birds either. I would imagine that it must be pretty hard to nest and rear a clutch of birds next to a fire hydrant, light pole, or parking garage all on asphalt or concrete. Just a thought……